50 ex-convicts undergo training

BOGOR (JP): The Bogor social services office has enrolled 50 former convicts in vocational training courses to improve their chances of earning an independent living.

Kusnadi, head of the social service office, said on Wednesday training opportunities ranged from automotive repair to preparation of salted eggs and noodles.

Each participant receives transportation fees of Rp 30,000 (US$3.75) a month during the four-month training course, which started in September.

"We hope the people will be able to create their own business or work together with their friends after the training," Kusnadi said.

The social services office had also conducted a labor intensive project for jobless people.

Kusnadi said one of the projects involved 120 people cultivating six hectares of idle land in Balumbang Jaya village in West Bogor.

He said participants received Rp 120,000 (US$16) to buy farming tools, seeds and fertilizer. (24/jun)